Amanda Kate grew up singing in church and started a group with two other girls when she was just a teenager. The “Wildflower” trio had been singing together since they were thirteen and received a lot of attention for their voices and tight harmonies.
After spending time touring and performing, they eventually decided that they had different career goals, so they went their separate ways professionally. Kate recalls that time fondly. “It was a really great experience,” she said, “I learned so much about the entertainment industry as a whole at a very young age.”
Going Solo
Although Kate moved into a solo career, she still has the most fun cowriting and collaborating with others. Her mom has been influential in this process, sharing her catalogue of over 2,000 songs and writing with her daughter as well. “She is an amazing songwriter,” Kate said.
Kate began to hone her songwriting skills at around 18 years old. She spent time in Nashville, which was eye-opening for her. “You always think you’re a writer until you go to that town and then you realize ‘Oh my gosh, I have so much to learn and there’s such an art to songwriting.’”
Despite having penned around 75 songs, Kate doesn’t necessarily consider herself a songwriter. She explained that she looks up to people like Lori McKenna who is one of the most sought-after songwriters around.
Kate grew up watching her mom on stage and now it’s her turn. “Being a mother and also doing entertainment– it’s come full-circle.”
Time
Kate released her album, Time, in November 2019. She had a vision for its theme and based her song selections on what she wanted to say at this time in her life.
The message behind the album name is incredibly powerful; the length of our time on Earth is extremely short, so we should make the most of it while we can. Kate’s mom was diagnosed with cancer two years ago and that news changed her entire outlook. “It was earth-shattering for me,” she said. Her mom is her best friend and they do so much together. This realization of how short our time is encouraged her to be authentic and say what she wanted. Rather than follow the pop-country trends on the radio, the album features a more traditional sound, with a lot of the songs containing emotional stories.
“Healing When I Ride”
“Healing When I Ride” is a song she wrote with her mom about one of their horses who has been instrumental in her healing journey with cancer. “I want to tell this story,” she said.
“The Package”
Eight years ago, Kate also wrote “The Package” with her mom and never imagined they would cut it. The premise of this song is explaining the connection between a mother and daughter. The mother doesn’t want her to give up on her dreams, which is what her own mom has often told her. This took on a whole new meaning since Kate has a daughter and will give her the same advice.
Despite her growing popularity, Kate didn’t want to be famous, she just wants to play music and share her songs. When she heard the news of her mom’s diagnosis, the important things came to the forefront of her life, primarily family and doing what she loves. She worked hard, prayed, and finally quit her day job to focus on music full time. Kate is grateful and proud that her mom is still here watching her chase her dreams.
What’s Next for Amanda Kate
Amanda Kate will begin recording her next EP in February, which will be produced by Brett Tyler Kate plans to release the album in May 2020. For more information, visit https://www.amandakatemusic.com/.